4.6
(235)
1,329
hikers
129
hikes
Hiking around Little Dunmow offers a network of trails through the gently rolling countryside of Essex. The region is characterized by open fields, rural villages, and sections of former railway paths like the Flitch Way. Elevation changes are generally modest, making many routes accessible for various fitness levels. The landscape often includes pockets of woodland and occasional water features.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
4.3
(3)
13
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
12
hikers
7.19km
01:51
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
10.3km
02:42
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Alot fly tipping over from the travellers site, beware of sharp objects on the cycleway.
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Be careful if you have less than nobbly tyres as the wooden slats become slippery when wet.
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Running for 15 miles between Bishop's Stortford and Braintree, the Flitch Way is totally traffic free and very flat. It is a fantastic place to hike with a good surface. The railway was opened in 1869 but closed 83 years later in 1952. It continued to operate for freight only until 1972. There is a cafe, toilets and visitors centre to the east of here at Rayne.
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Within Priory Church in Little Dunmow lies the tomb of Matilda Fitz Walter, said to be Maid Marian of the legend of Robin Hood. The story goes that Matilda fell in love with an unknown warrior who came to her 18th birthday banquet. During the same celebration, Prince John also fell for her and when his advances were turned down resorted to violent means in attempt to marry her. After Prince John killed her father, Matilda fled into the forest and was met by the warrior. He revealed himself as Robin Hood, the outlawed Earl of Huntingdon. The couple were married but Matilda was later killed by Prince John (by then King) who sent her a poisoned bracelet that rotted her wrist through to the bone!
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Stebbing is a small, historic village dating from at least the 11th century. A medieval motte & bailey castle stood to the east of the village on what is now called 'The Mount: The church is a grade I listed building and boasts one of only three stone rood screens in Europe. There are many timber buildings throughout the village including Prior's Hall, a grand 16th century house.
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Pleasant little cafe but only limited space, indoors and out, and no space for bike parking so best for only a couple of riders - larger groups, go elsewhere. Cakes and drinks only.
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no real crossing point for bikes on busy main road
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There are over 120 hiking trails documented around Little Dunmow on komoot, offering a wide variety of options for different preferences and fitness levels.
Hikes in Little Dunmow vary, but many popular routes range from 3 to 6 miles (5 to 10 km), typically taking between 1.5 to 3 hours to complete. For example, the Rumblebees Café – Plunge Pool in the Stream loop is about 3.1 miles (5.0 km) and takes around 1 hour 19 minutes.
Yes, Little Dunmow offers many easy routes suitable for families. Over 60 of the trails are rated as easy. A great option is The White Hart, Stebbing – Stebbing Village loop from Stebbing, an easy 4.5-mile (7.2 km) path exploring rural surroundings and the village of Stebbing.
Many of the trails around Little Dunmow, particularly those through open countryside and along the Flitch Way, are suitable for dogs. Always ensure your dog is under control, especially near livestock, and check for any local signage regarding leash requirements.
Yes, many of the routes in Little Dunmow are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Slippery Wooden Slats – Flitch Way road crossing loop from Flitch Green, which is a moderate 5.2-mile (8.4 km) circular trail.
The landscape around Little Dunmow features gently rolling countryside, open fields, and charming rural villages. You'll also find sections of former railway paths like the Flitch Way, pockets of woodland, and occasional water features, offering a varied and pleasant hiking experience.
Yes, some routes incorporate stops at local establishments. For instance, the The White Hart, Stebbing – Stebbing Village loop starts and ends near The White Hart pub in Stebbing, providing a convenient refreshment stop.
The area boasts several interesting points. You can explore the historic Rayne Station and Flitch Way Visitor Centre, or visit the picturesque Finchingfield Village Green. For history enthusiasts, there are sites like Pleshey Castle Earthworks and Leez Priory nearby.
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Little Dunmow, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 200 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful rural setting, the well-maintained paths, and the variety of scenery, from open fields to woodland sections.
While some villages in the area are served by local bus routes, direct public transport access to all trailheads might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules if you plan to rely on public transport for specific starting points.
While most routes are easy to moderate, there are some longer options. For example, the Stebbing Village – The White Hart, Stebbing loop is a moderate 6.4-mile (10.3 km) trail with slightly more elevation gain, offering a longer outing.
Little Dunmow's trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer offers pleasant long days, and autumn showcases beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the modest elevation changes make for accessible walks, though paths can be muddy after rain.


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